The Union Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the country. With reference to the Indian Parliament answer the following questions:
Explain the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
Topic: Composition of the Rajya Sabha
Answer
The Rajya Sabha can have a maximum of 250 members: (1) Not more than 238 are REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATES AND UNION TERRITORIES. They are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies by proportional representation through a single transferable vote, the number allotted to each State depending on its population. (2) 12 members are NOMINATED BY THE PRESIDENT from among persons having special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art and social service. (3) Members are elected for a term of six years, one-third retiring every two years; the Vice-President is its ex-officio Chairman.
Three marks, so cover three elements: the elected representatives, the nominated members, and the term. The figures carry the marks — 250 maximum, 238 elected, 12 nominated, 6-year term. Give the four fields for nomination too (literature, science, art, social service); they are frequently asked in their own right. Note the method of election, proportional representation by single transferable vote, which distinguishes it from the direct election of the Lok Sabha.